Gongabu, Kathmandu, Nepal
Earth Matter Treks & Expedition Nepal
  • Destination

    Nepal

  • Regions

    Gorkha District

  • Activity

    A Day Tour

  • Accomodation

    Hotels/Resorts

  • Transportation

    Drive

  • Duration

    A Day Trip

  • Trip Grade

    Moderate

  • Altitude

    Manakamana Temple: Approximately 1,302 meters (4,272 feet) above sea level and Kurintar: Approximately 258 meters (846 feet) above sea level

  • Best Season

    Autumn (September to November), Spring (March to May), Winter (December to February) and Monsoon (June to August)

  • Start/End Point

    Kathmandu / Kathmandu

Destination Region Activity Accomodation Transportation
Nepal Gorkha District A Day Tour Hotels/Resorts Drive
Duration Trip Grade Altitude Best Season Start/End Point
A Day Trip Moderate Manakamana Temple: Approximately 1,302 meters (4,272 feet) above sea level and Kurintar: Approximately 258 meters (846 feet) above sea level Autumn (September to November), Spring (March to May), Winter (December to February) and Monsoon (June to August) Kathmandu / Kathmandu

Trip Overview

The Manakamana tour is a popular pilgrimage and sightseeing journey in Nepal. Manakamana Temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Bhagwati, an incarnation of Parvati. The temple is located in the Gorkha district, about 100 kilometers west of Kathmandu. It is believed that the goddess Bhagwati grants the wishes of those who visit her shrine. The Gorkha region, with its blend of historical, cultural, and natural attractions, provides a rich and immersive experience for visitors to the Manakamana Temple.

Trip Highlights

  • The Manakamana Temple is accessible by a cable car ride that takes about 10 minutes, offering scenic views of the Trishuli River and surrounding hills.
  • The temple is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in Nepal, attracting both Hindu and Buddhist devotees.
  • The area around the temple is filled with local shops and eateries, providing a taste of local cuisine and crafts.
  • The temple area offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan range, including peaks like Manaslu and Annapurna.
  • The tour is typically a day trip from Kathmandu, but some prefer to stay overnight in nearby towns like Kurintar or Gorkha to explore more of the region.

Itinerary

  • Activity: Begin your journey early to avoid traffic and maximize your time at the destination.
  • Details: Gather your belongings, and ensure you have essentials such as water, snacks, comfortable clothing, and a camera. A hired vehicle or a guided tour can make the trip smoother.

  • Activity: Travel from Kathmandu to Kurintar.
  • Details: The drive offers picturesque views of the countryside, hills, and rivers. The road trip can be an enjoyable part of the experience.

  • Activity: Arrive at the base station for the Manakamana cable car.
  • Details: Take a short break, use restroom facilities, and purchase cable car tickets if not done in advance. Stretch and prepare for the cable car ride.

  • Activity: Ride the cable car from Kurintar to Manakamana Temple.
  • Details: Enjoy a 10-minute scenic ride with stunning views of the Trishuli River, terraced fields, and lush greenery. Capture photos of the landscape.

  • Activity: Explore the temple grounds and participate in religious rituals.
  • 11:00 AM - 11:15 AM: Walk from the cable car station to the temple.
  • 11:15 AM - 11:45 AM: Participate in religious ceremonies, offer prayers, and learn about the temple’s significance.
  • 11:45 AM - 12:15 PM: Explore the temple surroundings, enjoy the panoramic views of the Himalayas, and take photos.
  • 12:15 PM - 01:00 PM: Relax, meditate, or simply absorb the peaceful atmosphere of the temple area.

  • Activity: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near the temple.
  • 01:00 PM - 01:15 PM: Find a suitable restaurant.
  • 01:15 PM - 02:00 PM: Savor traditional Nepali dishes such as dal bhat (rice and lentils), momo (dumplings), or other local specialties.

  • Activity: Walk around the local area and visit nearby shops.
  • 02:00 PM - 02:15 PM: Browse local shops for souvenirs, handicrafts, and religious items.
  • 02:15 PM - 02:30 PM: Interact with locals, learn about their culture, and perhaps try some local snacks or tea.

  • Activity: Take the cable car back down to Kurintar.
  • 02:30 PM - 02:40 PM: Walk back to the cable car station.
  • 02:40 PM - 03:00 PM: Enjoy the descent with more opportunities for scenic views and photography.

  • Activity: Depart from Kurintar and travel back to Kathmandu.
  • 03:00 PM - 03:15 PM: Settle into your vehicle and prepare for the drive back.
  • 03:15 PM - 06:30 PM: Enjoy the return journey, reflecting on the day’s experiences and perhaps making a brief stop for refreshments.
  • 06:30 PM - 07:00 PM: Arrive in Kathmandu, concluding your trip.

Cost Inclusion/Exclusion

Cost Inclusion

  • Private Vehicle Hire: Cost of hiring a private vehicle (car or van) for the round trip from Kathmandu to Kurintar.
  • Fuel and Driver Charges: Fuel expenses and driver charges for the entire journey.
  • Round Trip Ticket: Cost of the cable car ride from Kurintar to Manakamana Temple and back.
  • Lunch: Cost of lunch at a local restaurant near Manakamana Temple.
  • Temple Entry: Any entry fees to the Manakamana Temple (if applicable)
  • Tour Guide: Cost of hiring a local guide for the day to provide information about the temple and its significance.

Cost Exclusion

  • Snacks and Drinks: Any additional snacks, drinks, or bottled water purchased during the trip.
  • Souvenirs: Personal purchases of souvenirs, handicrafts, or religious items.
  • Breakfast and Dinner: Meals not specified in the itinerary (e.g., breakfast before departure and dinner upon return to Kathmandu).
  • Insurance: Any personal travel insurance for the day trip.
  • Tips for Driver/Guide: Any tips or gratuities for the driver, guide, or restaurant staff.
  • Unexpected Expenses: Any other unforeseen expenses or activities not mentioned in the itinerary.